The transition to college life can be a tough one for some. I know it was for me. I missed my family and friends, cats, and the perks of living at home. You don’t have to worry about laundry, having “good” food, or the bathroom being clean. However, college is a unique time in your life. You are not out in the “real world” yet, but not in high school anymore. You have so much freedom and many choices to make, and as long as you make these decisions wisely, your experience can be a memorable one. If you’re having a hard time adjusting to college life, try some of these tips from my personal experience.
1. Get involved– The only way you are going to make friends and be apart of campus is to join in on campus activities. You need to let your guard down and try new opportunities. I made the mistake freshmen year of letting my homesickness get in the way of everything going on around me. Relax, and enjoy the ride.
2. FaceTime Family– I missed daily conversations with my family and simply just talking about our days. Call them! Chances are they want to talk to you, and you want to talk to them. You don’t need to do this all the time, but maybe every once in a while. It will make you feel more at ease!
3. Stay on a schedule– If you go to class and lay around for the rest of the day, chances are you will think about home more frequently. If you go to class, then exercise and go to the library, you will keep yourself moving and from overthinking. Yes, taking naps are great, but don’t stay in your room all day. Keep yourself busy!
4. Talk to friends at home– I always feel that talking to my few close friends from home helps me feel better! Chances are, they are feeling the same way you are at their college. Talking with them about their experiences will help you realize you aren’t the only one feeling this way. Checking in with them will not only benefit you, but them too.
5. Remember why you’re at SUNY Oneonta– You are at this school for a reason, whether it be the distance, major, or opportunities. Whenever I start to think how I could be at a school closer to home, I realize how they don’t have my program and the department accessible to me here. You need to keep your end goal in mind, and always work towards achieving it.
6. Get your work done during the day to give yourself time at night to relax– One of my favorite things to do at home is curl up in a blanket and watch my favorite tv show or movie at night. Try and be productive during the day so you can do that here! Grab your favorite hot drink and pajamas and enjoy your night!
7. Bring pictures or something from home- I have a bulletin board full of pictures, but most importantly, I have a box under my bed with little things that make me feel better. I have letters from home, pictures and collectibles that make me smile when I look at them. Whenever I am feeling down, I take out this box and reminisce over the valuables inside.
8. Plan a visit home- If you feel homesick, it is good to stay at school for a few weeks to get used to it. Going home too fast can make it worse. Try planning a visit home a few weeks out so you have that to look forward to! Whenever I know I am going home for a weekend, it motivates me to get my work done and make my family proud.
I know these strategies may not work for everyone, but it is a start! Some days are harder than others, and that is normal. You can get through it if you believe you can and remember why you’re are doing this! Just doing these small things every once in awhile can make a huge difference! Take time out of your busy schedule to do something for you! I am still not over my homesickness, but I am trying and want to help others feeling the same way!
HCXO, Emily